U.S. Policy in Afghanistan
Military Involvement and Plans for Transition to Afghan Leadership
Throughout 2001, but prior to the September 11 attacks, the policy of President George W. Bush’s Administration differed little from that of President Bill Clinton’s Administration — applying economic and political pressure on the Taliban while retaining some dialogue with it, and refraining from militarily assisting the Northern Alliance. The September 11 Commission report said that, in the months prior to the September 11 attacks, Administration officials leaned toward such a step. The report added that some officials wanted to assist ethnic Pashtuns who were opposed to the Taliban. Other covert options were reportedly under consideration. In accordance with UN…
